Psychological Effects of Robotic Rehabilitation in Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury: A Narrative Review

Abstract

IntroductionSpinal cord injury (SCI) is associated with severe physical, psychological, and social burdens. Robotic rehabilitation, especially robotic-assisted gait training, is increasingly used to improve functional recovery. Nonetheless, its psychological effects which are key to motivation, compliance, and long-term prognosis have received little scrutiny.MethodsWe conducted a narrative review across five databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, Embase) from inception to January 2025. Studies were included if they evaluated robotic rehabilitation in SCI and reported psychological outcomes. Findings were synthesized thematically into domains of anxiety/technophobia, motivation/engagement, self-efficacy/dependence, and frustration/quality of life.ResultsRobotic systems frequently improved autonomy, motivation, and self-confidence, which corresponded to less depression and a better quality of life. Nevertheless, negative effects including technophobia, frustration from technological malfunction, and loss of self-efficacy from excessive dependence were found. Patient experiences ranged: empowerment and new optimism were reported by some patients, whereas others experienced the devices as complicated, emotionally alienating, or inadequately adjustable.DiscussionRobotic rehabilitation has a dual psychological effect. On one hand, it encourages engagement and emotional resilience; on the other, it carries risks of interdependence and diminished autonomy. There are ethical issues to be resolved access disparities, data protection, and preserving human connection that require careful management. The inclusion of psychological screening, education of patients, and specific goal-setting within protocols can maximize results.ConclusionRobotic rehabilitation is highly capable of promoting progress after SCI if psychological considerations are completely incorporated into rehabilitation interventions. A multimodal approach that is interdisciplinary and ethically solid is required to achieve optimized functional improvement as well as psychosocial health.